Fans of IU and Byeon Woo Seok can finally mark their calendars—the highly awaited drama Wife of a 21st Century Prince (working title) has officially locked in a 2026 premiere. The MBC series, set in an alternate Korea under a constitutional monarchy, will air as a Friday-Saturday drama in the first half of the year. Alongside the two leads, actors Noh Sang Hyun and Gong Seung Yeon have joined the cast, adding more depth to the royal-themed romance .
Drama Plot and Setting
The story unfolds in a modern-day Korea where royalty still exists. IU plays Sung Hee Joo, the brilliant and competitive second daughter of Korea’s wealthiest conglomerate family. Despite her privilege, she faces societal barriers due to her commoner status. Her life takes a dramatic turn when she enters a contract marriage with Prince Lee Wan (Byeon Woo Seok), the king’s second son, who struggles with isolation despite his royal title .
“Sung Hee Joo is bold and unafraid to challenge norms, while Prince Lee Wan hides his true self behind royal duties. Their unexpected bond changes both their lives,” describes an MBC representative .
Supporting Cast and Characters
Noh Sang Hyun takes on the role of Min Jung Woo, a prime minister from a powerful political family and Lee Wan’s childhood friend. He also shares a past with Hee Joo as her senior at the royal academy, complicating the dynamics between the leads .
Gong Seung Yeon plays Yoon Yi Rang, a woman destined to become queen. Coming from a lineage that has produced four queens, she is determined to secure her royal future at any cost .
Production and Delay Reasons
Originally slated for a 2025 release, the drama faced scheduling adjustments. Reports in February 2025 suggested a possible delay due to production refinements, and by April, MBC confirmed the 2026 premiere .
Director Park Joon Hwa, known for hits like What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim and Alchemy of Souls, leads the project. The script, a winner of MBC’s 2022 drama contest, promises a mix of political intrigue and heartfelt romance .
Fan Reactions
The pairing of IU and Byeon Woo Seok has generated massive excitement, especially after his breakout role in Lovely Runner and her acclaimed performances in Hotel Del Luna and My Mister. Social media buzzed with speculation earlier this year when rumors surfaced about potential cast dropouts, but both agencies quickly denied the claims .
Also Read: Byeon Woo Seok Advocates for Men’s Makeup in Dazed Korea Feature, Highlighting Confidence and Style
With filming set to begin soon, Wife of a 21st Century Prince is going to be one of 2026’s most talked-about dramas.
